The state didn't release ages or towns of residence for either of the women.

The illness isn't spread from person-to-person, but by exposure to the microscopic parasite cyclospora cayetanensis, found in food and water. It's not yet known what caused the outbreak, but previous cyclospora incidents were caused by various kinds of fresh produce.

At least 18 of those sickened have been hospitalized, and there haven't been any deaths yet.

Locally, health experts said cyclospora isn't uncommon, particularly among those who travel to developing nations.

Dr. Michael Parry, Stamford Hospital director of infectious diseases and microbiology, said he sees a handful of cases each year. "(Cyclospora cayetanensis) is a well-known protozoa that causes diarrhea," Parry said. "Compared to everything else that causes diarrhea, it's a relatively small problem."

Dembry, also a professor of medicine infectious diseases and epidemiology at the Yale University School of Medicine, agreed that cyclospora is something that pops up at most hospitals. What's odd about this outbreak, she said, is that the majority of those afflicted with cyclospora didn't have a history of recent international travel.

At least one of the Connecticut residents afflicted with the disease likely acquired it while traveling internationally. That case, and others related to international travel, aren't considered part of the national outbreak.

It is not known whether the illness of the other woman, who had no history of international travel, is related to the national outbreak.

So far, the outbreak hasn't made a major dent in Connecticut, and most of the cases seem to be in Iowa.

Still, experts said residents should be mindful of their health and extra careful in preparing their produce. "Anyone who (has a compromised immune system) and has problematic watery diarrhea should see a doctor," said Caroline Loeser, section chief of gastroenterology at Bridgeport Hospital. "And everyone should wash their fruits and vegetables very well."